2013 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class

Heavy Expectations for the Sportier and Lighter Roadster

The current-generation Mercedes SL has been around for the better part of a decade -- an eternity in today's blisteringly fast-paced automotive landscape, although high-end roadsters like the SL usually hang around longer for each generation. But there's little doubt the handsome and tech-heavy roadster with a heritage that traces back to the legendary 300SL Gullwing has proven worthy of the three-pointed star during its lengthy run. Will the same be said of the all-new 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class?

Last month, senior features editor Jonny Lieberman was among the first group automotive journalists to see the new 2013 SL in person and reaction was decidedly mixed. We're guessing these first photos of the new SL-Class, which is making its world debut at the 2012 Detroit auto show, will evoke a similar reaction in the comments section below.At first glance, the 2013 SL-Class, which will come to the U.S. in SL550 trim to start, appears to be an evolutionary step over the outgoing car from a design standpoint, especially from the rear, where the familiar triangular taillights have been tightened and treated to redesigned LED lighting. Its profile is also similar and is dominated by its long hood. The fender vents remain but grow vertically and are now accented with two chrome fins. The most drastic departure takes place up front, where its upright grille is flanked by two massive headlights, similar in scope to the flagship SLS AMG and other recent Benz offerings. The headlights illuminate the road thanks to bi-xenon lamps with fiber-optic accents. Daytime running LED lamps on the lower bumper complete the lighting treatment.

Style aside, the most significant news for the 2013 SL is the literal take on the meaning of the letters "SL," which stand for sporty and lightweight. For starters, this is the first SL constructed almost entirely of aluminum. The body is stronger than the predecessor's steel construction thanks to a number of unique techniques such as chill casting, MIG welding, and friction stir welding, a technique Lieberman describes as laying "two pieces of metal next to or on top of each other and [going] at them with a tool spinning so fast it melts the alloy, joining the pieces together." The aluminum diet program is good for a 275-pound reduction compared to the outgoing SL550, despite its larger dimensions (1.97 inches longer and 2.24 inches wider). Estimated curb weight is a tad over 3900 pounds.

Under the hood, the 2013 SL550 will receive the 4.6-liter, direct-injected, twin-turbo, V-8 engine that has made its way throughout much of the Mercedes-Benz lineup. Power is rated at 429 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque, a significant boost to the outgoing car's 382 hp and 391 lb-ft. Mercedes has estimated a conservative 0-60 mph time of 4.5 seconds. Despite the performance gains, the SL will also be thriftier at the pump thanks to a revised seven-speed transmission and ECO start/stop technology.

In addition to its lighter curb weight, Benz says the SL will also be more agile courtesy of two suspension options that include parts constructed of massive and high-strength aluminum components. The Agility Control Suspension system comes standard, while the optional Active Body Control that debuted in the last-gen car will also do its part to help keep the roadster flat and planted through the curves. Finally, the 2013 SL will feature speed-sensitive, electromechanical Direct-Steering with variable ratios.

Inside, passengers are surrounded by supercar-like elements pulled from the SLS AMG. For example, the crosshair HVAC vents, gear shift knob, and metallic-faced instrument gauges mimic the SLS AMG, while rich wood and leather options look stunning. The steering wheel features a special touch, with "Mercedes-Benz" engraved in cursive on the bottom spoke. Last but not least, open-air driving is still possible with the push of a button. The retractable top operates faster and is also 13-pounds lither thanks to magnesium construction. The top will also be offered with two glass options-a simple glass roof or the Magic Sky Control roof, which debuted in the SLK.Among the technological debuts on the SL is FrontBass, a system that essentially utilizes dead space within the footwell for audio subwoofers. Also premiering on the 2013 SL is Magic Vision Control, which feature windshield wiper blades with integrated spray nozzles designed to wipe water away efficiently, preventing overspray. The trunk will be offered with Hands-Free Access, allowing the owner to simply swipe their foot below the bumper to open and close the lid. Finally, the SL will come standard with the automaker's latest safety gadgets, including Pre-Safe, Attention Assist, and Adaptive Brakes. After its Detroit show debut, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is set to hit U.S. dealer showrooms in the spring of next year.

I like this car from every angle, save one, the front. I like the upright grill, and I like the lower fascia, but the headlights are just wrong and they mess up the design up front. At least that's what I'm guessing the problem is. Sad, the rest of the car is actually pretty elegant.

The interior *had* to be great so it would take your mind off the Dodge-truck front end. Whew! That is really too bad. And, yeah, Mr. ALF, I agree. The overhangs bring me way back. The first thing I thought of was the last Firebird, a car I wouldn't get closer than ten feet from lest anyone think it's mine. Wonderful interior.

Mercedes is not in the "wow" business. At least not visually. The last time they tried to do that, they made the SLR look like the Batmobile. What they do is make handsome, understated designs that look like a man in a business suit, not a Lady Gaga costume.

I think the design similarities come from new German crash-test requirments. I liked the old swoopy R230 models, but my favorite was always the R129. This here looks like they're going back to the boxier R129, so it's a good thing IMHO.This new interior is a BIG improvement though! It looks much better here than on the SLS.

Anyone else seeing a good deal of BMW design in this bad boy? Takes some pages out of the new 6-Series' book for the front end, and the previous-gen 5-Series in the back. Not a big fan.The interior, however, looks fantastic. Great lookin' dash and seats.

When the SLS came out, a man in my town bought one. When I was blessed with the pleasure of sitting in it and going for a ride, I immediately fell in love with the interior. It is extremely simple, the layout is easy to understand, while still maintaining all the luxury features you expect a luxury car to have.When I saw that virtually the very same interior from the SLS made its way into the SLK, I was extremely pleased. And, now that I see a version of it has made its way into the SL, I am even more pleased. Mercedes did a wonderful job with that interior, and a wonderful job with the new SL by the looks of things.

Wow that new interior is fantastic, better than both the SLK and the SLS. That red leather looks great and the trim is real nice. Can't wait to see the new 63 AMG version, the current SL63 is one bad mutha. Perhaps I'll start with the SLK55 and work my way up.

The mechanical and chassis changes are significant (and really most important).The styling isn't breathtaking but still fairly elegant and classic. At least they didn't ruin it like they ruined the CLS. Its a shame that most manufacturers now want all their cars to look the same. Therefore, this new SL looks a lot like any other new Benz just with 2 doors, 2 seats, a long hood and a convertible top.

I really have to see it in person. Some cars look meh in pics, but in real world they are fab. and some look meh in both pics and real world. I hope this car belongs to the first group, if not then i should say congrats to MB design team because they ruined such a nice car.And since when MB have become ricer? what's with the "SL" and "Mercedes Benz" script on shift knob and steering wheel?